MMA gloves are the specific type of glove designed for training and competing in Mixed Martial Arts.
Unlike boxing gloves, MMA gloves have much less padding and are designed to keep the fingers separated, allowing you to grab your opponent, execute takedowns or submission techniques, and work on the ground (grappling) β without sacrificing the protection you need when striking.
Whether for training or competition, every amateur and professional MMA fight today is contested with gloves β the legendary and wild Vale-Tudo era is long gone.
At RoninWear you'll find the largest selection of MMA gloves on the market, featuring the best brands and models for both professional use and sparring.
Not all MMA gloves are the same. The type you need depends on how you're going to use them:
These are the gloves you see in UFC, Bellator, ONE Championship, and the major MMA organizations. They typically weigh 4 ounces, have minimal padding, and usually feature a completely open palm to make gripping easier. They're designed for competition and bag work β it's not normal or recommended, even if some people do it, to use them for sparring with training partners.
If you train MMA regularly and spar with partners, you need sparring gloves. They're thicker than pro gloves (usually 6 or 7 ounces), offer more knuckle protection, and typically include thumb protection to prevent eye injuries. They're slightly less comfortable for pure grappling, but the extra protection is necessary so you can train harder without destroying your training partner.
| Pro Gloves (4 oz) | Sparring Gloves (6-7 oz) | |
|---|---|---|
| Padding | Minimal (real impact) | Dense (greater protection) |
| Thumb | Generally open | Protected (prevents eye injuries) |
| Palm | Open (better grip) | Partially covered |
| Ideal use | Competition, bag work, Body Combat | Daily sparring, technical classes |
If you're just starting out in MMA, never use 4 oz gloves for sparring with your training partners. These are competition gloves built for knockouts, with minimal padding. For day-to-day training, invest in a good pair of MMA sparring gloves with thumb protection. Your training partner will thank you, and you'll avoid unnecessary injuries to your hands and wrists.
Unlike boxing gloves, which are chosen by weight (ounces), MMA gloves are usually sized using standard sizing: S, M, L, XL, or double sizes like S/M and L/XL β based on the circumference of your hand. Each brand fits a little differently (Venum doesn't fit the same as Leone or Fairtex), so always check the specific size guide for the model you're interested in, or ask us if you have any questions. The fit should be snug: a glove that shifts around during a fight can lead to finger or wrist injuries.
In most MMA gyms, hand wraps are not used under MMA gloves. The interior space is limited and wraps restrict your ability to grip, which is essential in grappling. Only specific wrapping or tape is recommended during exclusive, high-intensity striking sessions where the wrist will be under a lot of stress.
Yes. In Body Combat (the Les Mills fitness program) or similar activities like David Lloyd's Blaze, many participants use pro-style MMA gloves (4 oz). Since there's no contact with an opponent β only strikes thrown in the air or on a bag β lightweight competition gloves are the most comfortable and practical option for this type of training.
At RoninWear we work with the most recognized brands in the industry. Venum is the official UFC supplier and offers gloves with injected foam technology. Fairtex is an absolute benchmark in Muay Thai and MMA with decades of experience. Leone 1947 is a classic Italian option with an excellent quality-to-price ratio. Hayabusa stands out for its anatomical fit and premium materials. And brands like RDX, Ringhorns, and Buddha offer very competitive options for those looking for quality on a budget.
At RoninWear we've been equipping MMA, BJJ, and combat sports athletes since 2007. Our MMA glove selection includes professional and sparring models from the best brands in the world, with a wide variety of designs and sizes. If you're not sure which MMA gloves to choose based on your level, discipline, or training style, reach out to our team: we train martial arts and we know what we're talking about.
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